Re: Yale Men's Hockey 2016-2017. Who will step up?
Did not see the game tonight, was still out celebrating the miracle in Boston today, so I could use some feedback.
I know the Yale came from behind for the tie. How did they look?
Actually, I thought they looked pretty good overall. The team played with good speed, crisp passing, and played with some teeth and fight. Ironically, I think it was their best game of the year.
Again, there were some defensive lapses--BU may have forced those issues upon us but the defense did not step up. When the D made a mistake the puck went in the net. Tucker was shaky--good reflexes but he had trouble with rebound control and a couple of times he had difficulty tracking the puck (aside from the goal from the top of the slot). Spano looked much sharper and more confident when he came in (granted BU might have let off the gas a little).
The offense just had no puck luck at all. Two posts hurt. And when the net was open they could not get a clean stick on the puck--it bounced or was wobbling. I believe in Branch Rickey's saying that "luck is the residue of design", but despite a good design and play the luck just did not happen. The PP also played well with better passing and working the puck around and to the inside rather than tossing it near the blue line.
I thought Hayden had an excellent game--he's having a great season. On a stronger team he is a hobey contender.
Ted Hart also played well, as did Hitch. I wanted Snively to be able to bury a few pucks but he just couldn't do it.
As a final note, that was my first time at Agganis. It is a wonderful place to watch a game. We had a great experience hanging around BU and at the game. A nice day despite the outcome of the game.
